Desert camping in Utah

From lakes to mountains to desert plateaus, Utah’s great outdoors comes in many flavors.

93% (9148 reviews)
93% (9148 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Utah

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Star Hosts in Utah

12 top desert campgrounds in Utah

97%
(3777)

Zion Wright Ranch Eco-Camp

57 sites · RVs, Tents1200 acres · Virgin, UT
Off Grid eco oriented camp on 1200 acres overlooking Zion National Park. Owned and operated by Bill Wright, a rancher whose family has farmed and ranched the land for several generations. A few minutes from Zion’s backcountry trails in the Kolob Terrace Region and approx. 40 minutes to the main gate of Zion NP. Bill Wright is the father of the legendary "Wright Brothers" the family of Professional Rodeo Saddle Bronc riders. You will often see Bill tending the land and moving cattle and horses from your campsite. This off the grid ranch has some of the most stunning views you'll ever encounter. Want a little adventure during your stay? Reserve a 2-hour horseback ride with Bill. He'll finish your ride with one of the most breathtaking vistas you can find of Zion National Park. Our property features many spaced out sites to choose from with bathrooms onsite. Pets and campfires are also allowed.
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$35
 / night
92%
(313)

Sandy Beach

46 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents350 acres · Scipio, UT
17 RV sites available for reservations. Easy to access 55 foot long sites. Each site has incredible lake views. Access to private sandy beach with jet ski, kayak, and paddle board rentals available. Fishing, water sports, views, and star gazing. Just a short distance from I-15 but worlds away from the hustle an bustle.
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$30
 / night
97%
(530)

Arrowhead Campground

7 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Monument Valley, UT
Greetings! Welcome to Arrowhead Campground! Arrowhead Campground is roughly 5 acres of land, sitting right in Monument Valley, Utah. Come stay with us to experience one of the most amazing views in the world! You'll get to experience a full 360 degree view of all the towering red sandstone buttes and mesas. This is great for capturing the best views in the area. You'll experience breathtaking sunsets and sunrises right from your campsite. Great for pictures and photoshoots. The campground offers one of the largest shade structures in the area, with durable white picnic tables. We do allow campfires, so there is a fire-pit for that. The campground is only 2 1/2 miles away from the tribal park and 1 1/4 miles from the nearest highway. It's tucked away and secluded from noise and light pollution. The stars at night are bright and shinny, so you can pitch your tent right underneath them. With that said, Arrowhead Campground will be one of the best campgrounds you'll ever stay at. If you have any other questions feel free to message me with any of your questions. Note: This is a dry campsite. Although, we do offer potable water to fill any water containers up to 10 gallons.
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$40
 / night
94%
(260)

Red Desert RV Park

8 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Moab, UT
Red Desert RV Park has expanded to 55 full hookup RV sites along with 14 cabins. We are geared towards outdoor adventurists and sightseers wanting a cost-effective stay while taking advantage of everything Moab has to offer! We are locally owned by a family of 8 and love calling Moab our home. We understand the corporate overtaking that Moab has had in the last 5 years and plan to keep our campground affordably priced and locally owned. We have upgraded the old site plan from 7 RV sites to 55 Full Service RV sites this year. Most sites are pull through but we will have some back-ins. Our new bathhouse has a laundry, women's bathrooms and showers, men's bathrooms and showers, and an ADA compliant family style bathroom. In addition to the new bathhouse, we have a new office and retail store where we sell souvenirs, RV supplies, snacks, drinks, ice, firewood, and other necessities for guests. We do not currently have propane fill on site. We know that there are many options to choose from when it comes to staying in Moab. We urge people to support locally owned businesses that help Moab grow and solve problems that exist in our community. Moab is a recreation mecca with something for everyone and our little campground on the south end of the valley puts you within minutes of town, the mountains, and the red deserts around Moab.
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$45
 / night
94%
(1360)

The Needles Outpost Campground

55 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Monticello , UT
This Outpost and campground is located on 300 acres of private property surrounded by park and public land. It has been here for over 30 years in some form or another. We are Caleb & Amber who enjoyed managing this little oasis in the middle of the desert from March to June of 2017 when we decided to purchase the business & make it our own. This is a dry, rugged campground with a bathhouse that provides coin operated showers and flush toilets. In addition there is little old rustic camp store placed in the middle of nowhere where we provide fuel, snacks, firewood, ice, showers, cold drinks & more. If you are looking for a more private site with lots of space and shade, book our Small Group at the Rocks. For a warmer stay during the cooler months book one of our Glamping Tents listed. We have the larger, and spacious tent in the grove of the Juniper Trees (which is also amazing in the warmer season) and rent a heater from us inside the general/camp store. BE SURE TO GIVE YOURSELF PLENTY OF TIME TO CHECK IN NO LATER THAN 5PM. THANK YOU!! DON'T FORGET TO TAKE A SCREEN SHOT OF THE DIRECTIONS HERE, YOU WILL LOSE SERVICE ON YOUR WAY.
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$58
 / night
91%
(126)

Red River Camp - Capitol Reef

6 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Teasdale, UT
Welcome to Red River Camp! Our camp sites highlight the beautiful red cliff backdrop infamous in southern Utah. Only 10 minutes from Capitol Reef National Park! Come relax and stay the night before you go out to hike, sight see, climb, off-road, fish etc. The opportunity for adventure is endless. Our family built the Red River Ranch many years ago and we are excited to share the beautiful surroundings with people that share our love for the outdoors. Guests will have a private camp site and access to their own fire pit, shared picnic table, shared trash, and shared toilet. No access to water, electricity, or sewer. Cell phone service should work great!
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$34
 / night
98%
(838)

Ranchito Feliz

6 sites · RVs, Tents9 acres · Cannonville, UT
When booking please add in your note the type of camping you are doing, ie. tent, car, van, or larger RV and please, only texts...NO calls. In the middle of the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument; adjacent to Bryce Canyon National Park; within walking distance of Kodachrome Basin State Park; and an easy drive to Zion and Capital Reef National Parks, as well as Lake Powell National Recreational Area, this unique site is an opportunity not to miss. The pet/horse friendly property (approximately 9 acres/3 ha/64 sq. m) boasts private designated single tent sites, and a mix car camping and larger RV sites, as well as paleontological, geological, biological, astronomical, and historical interests of the ranch. The equestrians will find a two-acre pasture, three paddocks, a round pen, as well as beautiful places to ride from the ranch. This secluded location has a small town of about 175 (Cannonville) three miles/5 k distant where there is a small store, gas, and a Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Visitor Center. And, bonus, the in town campground has: high speed internet, and cell phone service and laundry. This ranch and campground is an off the grid, passive/active solar voltaic, so no electricity, no internet and only Verizon works here. In Tropic 12 miles distant all carriers get service. Potable water, shower, dish washing station and composting toilet (This means that all campers count when booking, even the kids...their poops add up too). The views are spectacular from any site where the xeroscaped landscape uses indigenous material and plants to complement the quintessential Pinon/Juniper ecosystem the campground sits in. On three sides you are surrounded by red cliffs in the Carmel Formation which can give shelter from wind and sun, but campers can also look out over the Paria River (you can hear the river from camp as well as its amphibians) which runs south in front of the property and eventually meets the Colorado River at Lee’s Ferry where most put-in to raft the Grand Canyon. Looking north, one sees the meaning of the term “Grand Staircase” by viewing The Entrada, Tropic Shale, Straight Cliffs, Wahweap, Kaiparowits, and Pink Limestone Formations capped by late Tertiary Volcanism; or, the “steps” of Promise Rock, Sand Point, Powell Point, and the Aquarius Plateau (highest forested mesa in North America at over eleven thousand feet.). The biological diversity here is also astounding: Birds: 140 species and counting including the tiny Costa’s Humming Bird all the way up to the enormous California Condor. Plants: 2 species of Sagebrush, 4 species of trees, numerous grass species, and a plethora of beautiful wildflowers and cacti. Reptiles: Many species of snakes and lizards. Unfortunately, this includes the occasional rattlesnake. It is advised that you have your pets vaccinated. Amphibian: Toads and Salamanders Insects: There are very few mosquitos. There are a few biting Deer Flies, and worse yet, those damn gnats. These “no-see-ums” are temperature dependent so are not a bother in the shade, early mornings, late evenings and at night. It is recommended that you bring some kick ass insect repellant and a “bee hat” if you are out and about in the sun during the day between May and July. Fossils: Bivalves, snails, petrified wood (many types) and various other corals, insects and plant fossils abound and are often incorporated into the ranch infrastructure. The nearby area is considered the hottest paleontological spot on the planet. Astronomy: The area is widely considered to be under the darkest skies in the lower 49. The Milky Way and Presides are common sights without the unsightly annoyance of any neighbor’s lights. The climate is varied and interesting. All four seasons are here and occasionally all in one day. Winter snows melt quickly though temperatures can dip into the sub-zeros. The 5,900 ft./1800 m. elevation keeps the summer temps reasonable and always gives a chilly summer evening to cool things off. If you want climatic extremes, you can, within an hour or so, be at Lake Powell and its 100+ F/38+ C heat or on the Aquarius Plateau at 65 degrees F/18 C in midday June. Recreation on many levels is all within proximity. From canyoneering, “free” climbing on an established nearby crag composed of a welded tuff capping the Aquarius Plateau (see Mountain Project and “The Aquarius Plateau”) and many aid lines on Entrada Formation towers within walking distance (see Mountain Project and “The Grand Staircase”), water sports of Lake Powell and the Colorado River as well as fishing in the cool temps of Pine Lake 35 minutes distant. Then of course, there is the Monument, National Park and the State Park only a short drive away. Seclusion, security, water, and views all within a short walk or drive of exiting destinations, make this worth the stop.
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$40
 / night
98%
(46)

Secluded Mountain Tent Site

2 sites · Tents1 acre · Morgan, UT
Learn more about our tent sites in beautiful Mt. Green: This tent site is right in a little scrub oak forest, nestled in the foothills below Snowbasin. Beautiful views of Morgan Valley, Snowbasin Ski resort, it is a gateway to all your outdoor adventures. We are semi-rural, so expect wild turkeys randomly visiting, along with our neighbor's chickens, and a rooster crowing. Maybe even a deer or moose, if you're lucky. A starry sky, because we don't have much light pollution! The sites are tucked behind a hill, perfect for privacy, and is surrounded by scrub oak trees. Campers are welcome to use the fire pit area chairs and our portable propane fire place (when there is not a fire danger in place). There are some plug in bistro lights for a cozy camping ambiance and a power strip to charge any electronics. There is drinkable water at the faucet by our front porch. Cooking with a propane camp stove is ok. There is an enclosed compost toilet, power strip for charging needs, and a picnic table at the first tent site. Dogs are negotiable, just ask ahead of time. The sites are a short walk down from the top of the driveway. Sites are not wheelchair accessible. The parking spot is level so it could work for a rooftop tent or camper van, it wouldn't be as private as one of the tent pads but it works great! Contact us before your visit and we'll explain where to park to put up a roof tent. Our location in Mt. Green is a great central location to some of these spots: 10 minutes from Snowbasin Ski Resort: Skiing, snow shoeing, hiking, mountain biking, and a great brunch at the lodge. 15 minutes from Morgan: ATV rentals, horseback riding, river tubing, BBQ, coffee, and Debs Spicy Pie. 15 minutes from Ogden: Historic 25th Street, great bars, farmer's markets every Saturday, movie theater, excellent restaurants, and amazing rock climbing. 40 minutes from Salt Lake City: amazing bars, great food, lots of activities. 20 minutes from Boating or swimming at Pineview in Eden, or in East Canyon in Morgan. We have all sorts of activities that we can recommend. Please reach out, we'd be happy to share some of our favorite places!
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$30
 / night
96%
(236)

Mexican Hat Rocks

40 sites · RVs, Tents200 acres · Mexican Hat, UT
No need to reserve ahead of time! Camp spots are not marked but are obvious, choose site when you arrive, refer to map. Please respect No Trespassing signs! Two (2) miles north of Mexican Hat, UT on Hwy 163, turn East, find your spot! Bigger Rigs: Keep to the right at the 'Y' as the road to the San Juan River is steep and a little bumpy! Next to the Bears Ears National Monument, between Valley of the Gods and Monument Valley along the San Juan River is Mexican Hat where you can camp on private property...as this is NOT on the Navajo Reservation, alcohol is allowed. So many things to see! Goosenecks State Park, Natural Bridges, Moki Dugway, Cedar Mesa! Camp on this private estate that was founded in the 1890's by gold and oil prospectors and where John Wayne later crossed the river in several western movies! The night skies are unbeatable as is the quiet solitude that is sadly disappearing in other areas. Mexican Hat Rock and this portion of the San Juan River are accessible only through this estate that is open for your enjoyment, however, if you wish to camp we now ask for a small fee so we can keep it clean, maintain roads and continue our conservation efforts so all can enjoy it forever! Portable toilets are required!!! And please pick up after yourself, dogs and horses. Pack it in, pack it out. Respect your fellow campers and stay on obvious trails and roads, do know that part of this property is marked as 'No Trespassing', please respect signage. No fee is required for day trips to 'The Hat'.
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$18
 / night
97%
(113)

Field Station Moab - showers, pool

5 sites · RVs4 acres · Moab, UT
Van life spot at camping hotel 20ft long with 120 volt - 110 standard outlet free washer/dryer showers pool fire pit cafe & general store gear rental Home of Arches and Canyonlands, Moab has long been a destination for travelers of all kinds. Field Station Moab is the ideal location for any adventure, offering a range of accommodations – rooms for two to eight guests, spots for van lifers – paired with our Little Station Coffee & Kitchen. Grab a mountain bike from our partners and explore the rocky terrain, or opt to raft down the iconic Colorado River. Park your home in one of our Van Life posts and enjoy all of the amenities Field Station has to offer. With 120 volt - 110 standard outlet power and communal space available to spread out, you’re welcome to stay and enjoy a hot shower, take a dip in the pool, or just relax with a beverage after a long day of driving. Each Van Life reservation comes with access to our showers, Wi-Fi, communal areas, guiding services, and rentals. Our van life spots are parking spots that are 20ft long with 120 volt - 110 standard outlet. These spots are only designed for vans and van like vehicles (no stand alone tents). Please check in with Guest Experiences before parking your vehicle.
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$69
 / night
93%
(69)

Wood Hill Campground

12 sites · RVs, Tents238 acres · Carbonville, UT
A mountain bikers dream. Over 50 miles of mountain bike trails connected to the property. Some are wide dirt roads that are shared with vehicles, ATVs and others. But there are also several single track bike trails to enjoy. With 238 acres, you will feel like you are the only one there. In addition, the Desert Wave Pool is at the foot of the hill which always has the same amount of water for cooling off even when the lakes are nearly empty. Learn more about this land: Wood Hill got its name because early settlers to the area used to gather wood to heat their homes on top of the plateau. It is a favorite hangout for locals who enjoy riding mountain bikes and ATVs on the property. Proceeds from the camp sites will be used to develop a climbing gym, zip line, confidence course and other fun amenities. So we hope you enjoy your stay enough to come back often.
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$20
 / night
100%
(234)

South-40@LaSal Tent and RV Park

4 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · La Sal, UT
The South-40@LaSal Is: quiet, spacious, secluded, secure, and natural! We are located 26 miles southeast of Moab Utah. ( about a 30 minute drive from town or 40 minutes from Arches national Park.) This property is 40 acres of undeveloped Ranch land That borders the remote community of La Sal, Utah. We currently offer four (4) RV spots and several opportunities for tent camping. The RV spots include: Electric hook ups with (50amp, 30 amp, & 20 amp) water hydrants, Wi-Fi Internet, gray water disposal system, and solar powered sanitary vault toilet, Currently there are no sewer hook ups, black water dump . See more pictures and videos on FB at South-40 at LaSal
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$40
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Desert camping in Utah guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, the ultimate camping resource for outdoor enthusiasts! If you're looking for a desert camping experience in Utah, you're in luck. With over 2775 options specifically tailored to your preference, you'll find the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the stunning desert landscapes. Whether you're seeking a tranquil oasis or an adventurous getaway, our top campsites like Zion Wright Ranch Eco-Camp (2033 reviews), The Needles Outpost Campground (811 reviews), and Ranchito Feliz (520 reviews) have got you covered. Enjoy popular amenities like pet-friendly sites, trash disposal, and campfire pits. And don't miss out on thrilling activities such as paddling, wildlife watching, and hiking. With an average price per night of just $30 and options as low as $5, camping in the Utah desert has never been more accessible. Happy camping!

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